On January 21^st, the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) and NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) published a report reviewing organ donation across the UK. At the NKF, we see first-hand the life-changing impact of transplantation for kidney patients and their families. By turning public support into informed action, we can help ensure more people receive the transplant they desperately need.

 

You will be able to read the full report here

 

Strengthening Organ Donation in the UK: Turning Support into Lives Saved

 

Organ donation saves lives, but across the UK, there are currently more people waiting for a transplant than ever before. A new report from the Organ Donation Joint Working Group highlights both the challenges facing organ donation and, importantly, the real opportunities to improve outcomes and save more lives.

 

Since 2024/25 rates of organ donation and transplantations have decreased and in part due to donor numbers and consent rates reducing. However, public support for organ donation remains strong, and the report highlights the actions that can be taken to reverse the trend in reducing numbers.

 

Opportunities for change

 

By engaging with donor families, clinicians, experts and looking at examples of international best practice, the report produces a number of ambitions to bridge the gap between the strong support for organ donation and allowing the families to trust that they can proceed with organ donation when approached.

 

It focuses on making better use of the laws already in place, improving how families are supported and spoken to at difficult times, and helping healthcare teams work together more effectively every day. It also highlights the importance of shaping information and services so they work for people from different backgrounds and communities.

 

Why family conversations matter

 

One of the most powerful findings in the report is the importance of clear, open conversations with families. When people talk to their loved ones about their wishes around organ donation, families are far more likely to support donation at a difficult and emotional time. Knowing someone’s decision can make all the difference.

 

Together, these actions have the potential to increase consent rates, expand the donor pool, and ensure more organs are successfully used for transplantation.

 

How you can help

 

Everyone has a role to play in improving organ donation:

 

If you are happy to be an organ donor, make sure you talk to your family about your wishes

 

Register your decision on the NHS Organ Donor Register

 

Share accurate information and encourage others to have the conversation

Read the Report